Work Related Stress
It’s crucial for employers to be proactively looking out for signs of work-related stress,
It’s crucial for employers to be proactively looking out for signs of work-related stress,
April is Stress Awareness Month, which makes it a great time to talk about a topic so many employers come across: work-related stress and burnout.
Stress affects people differently; what stresses one person may not affect another. Things like your skills, experience, age, or whether you have a disability can all play a role in how you handle stress. It’s also important to know the difference between stress and pressure. A bit of pressure can be a good thing—it can push people to stay focused and perform better. It’s when that pressure is excessively applied over a long period that it can take a real toll on both mental and physical health. This is where many employers run into issues such as employee burn out and long-term sickness absence.
It’s therefore crucial for employers to be proactively looking out for signs of work-related stress, so issues can be nipped in the bud early. Some indicators of work-related stress may include:
- inconsistencies in performance
- decline in motivation
- increased irritability and overreactions to problems
- increased absenteeism or presenteeism
- increased illness, particularly relating to nervous disorders such as, stomach issues and tension headaches
- increased tiredness
- changes in appearance i.e. poor hygiene
- increased alcohol and/or nicotine consumption
- asking for help or reductions in workload
- spotting that others in similar roles are experiencing stress related illnesses.
How should employers deal with stress-related issues in the workplace?
- Implement a written policy with clear guidance on stress within the workplace.
- Identify the causes of work-related stress by conducting surveys, focus groups, monitoring patterns/trends, or simply encouraging open conversations with staff.
- Conduct risk assessments and stress audits.
- Train all managers on how to manage stress in the workplace.
- Ensure there is clear and transparent communication throughout the business, especially during times of change.
- Implement an employee handbook, so you have a set of policies and procedures in place to deal with workplace issues.
- Empower your employees; involve and collaborate with them to engage and align them with the business’ goals.
- Set clear goals and objectives; this can be achieved with a good induction, through SMART objective setting and comprehensive training and development plans.
- Celebrate and appreciate your team i.e. recognise their achievements, host team events, consider staff awards, token gifts etc.
- Assess whether flexible working options may be feasible to improve work/life balance.
- Involve occupational health specialists where issues are identified.
- Consider resilience training for your staff i.e. teaching coping techniques, mindfulness etc.
- Consider introducing an employee assistance programme.
If you need further advice on a work-related stress issue or another HR matter, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team who can support you